Ten Myths About Car Keys Cut That Aren't Always The Truth Where to Get Car Keys Cut

It is essential to have your car keys cut. This will help you save cash at the dealer. It will also prevent you from being left stranded if your key breaks.

Modern keys contain transponders which need to be programmed to work with the vehicle. Your local AutoZone has the capacity to replace these keys at a fractional price.

What type of key do I need?

There are getting a key cut for a car of keys. The most basic type of key is the traditional key. It does not have any encoding, and it is just a piece of metal that fits into locks. Keys like these are typically found in older automobiles.

Double-sided or 4-sided keys are more secure and are identified as having two or four sets on opposite sides of the blade. These keys are more difficult to pick and can help prevent break-ins because they require extra strength to open the lock.

Another kind of key is a transponder, which contains a microchip that is programmed to allow the car to start. This reduces the risk of theft since the key is only compatible with the particular vehicle. Transponder keys are a little more expensive than mechanical or traditional keys, however they offer added security.

Most of the time, when you need a replacement key you can find your local AutoZone store will have the right parts and the knowledge to complete it right away. All you need to do is provide them with the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle and they can take care of it for you.

Certain modern vehicles have remote fobs that have to be programmed using the vehicle's computer to work and requires special tools and software. While many people choose to contact their dealership for assistance, it's not always necessary. You can also look online for replacement keys/fobs that are available at much lower prices than what you'd spend at a dealership. Before you buy make a purchase, you should be aware that these key fobs are hackable, so be sure you use a reliable source.

Where can I get a key cut?

Most auto locksmiths can cut standard keys for cars. They'll need the year, make and model of your vehicle to give you a suitable key blank, which they cut using high-quality machinery on site. However, some modern car keys, like fobs, also come with transponder chips that require special programming specific to the vehicle. You might be able to get these types of keys copied by Home Depot or similar stores however they do not have the equipment needed to clone or program the chip.

The standard procedure for duplicating keys for a traditional auto key is a user choosing the appropriate blank key and placing it next to your existing key to serve as an example. A machine then trace the original contours of the key to create a duplicate. Bring in your original key if it has scratches. These will be added to your new key.

Mister Minit stores have the specialist equipment required to duplicate the key of all automobiles. It is helpful to have the year model, make and year of your car in hand together with the key or remote fob so that we can select the right blank for your replacement key. Many stores can assist with the process of programming the new key into your vehicle, if it's a push button start model.

What equipment do I need?

Modern ignitions require precise tools to ensure a perfect cut. Cutting a new key for cars is more difficult than copying one that already exists. It requires specialized equipment which is only available in key cutters that have the correct tools.

The key fobs of most vehicles sold in Australia come with a transponder, which is programmed to your vehicle. This security feature was introduced in the early 1990s to tackle the rising rate of theft from cars in Australia. It has since become standard for all new vehicles sold in the present.

This means a spare or replacement key will need to be laser cut and then programmed to the specific car you own, which is a costly and time-consuming procedure. Fortunately, the majority of Mister Minit locations have the expert equipment and experience to handle this for you and all you need is the working key you wish to have duplicated, and if it is possible, the year, make and model of your car to help us identify the correct code to program your new key.

It might be worthwhile getting a spare key made for your car that has a push button start. This key will have the key fob which can be programmed separately to the car. Most Mister Minit shops can quickly and easily cut and program a replacement or spare key. You'll need your car key, and if you can, the year and make of both keys, so that we can determine which key is transponder and then program it to your vehicle.

Can I cut a key by myself?

Many hardware stores or big box retailers offer the service of cutting keys for a cost. They employ a machine to track the contours of the original key in order to produce a exact replica. This method works for keys older than not have a chip. Modern cars require that the key fob be programmed. This is a difficult task that requires specialized equipment and skills. Locksmiths are more equipped to handle this type of work, since they are equipped with the required equipment and tools.

You can also go to a kiosk for cutting keys such as one run by KeyMe. These are convenient, but they cannot cut all kinds of keys. Some common keys can easily be copied. Other keys with specializations must be mailed to be processed. Make sure that you aren't trying to create a duplicate of a key with "Do Not Duplicate" on it. If this is the case, you'll need to call a locksmith for help.

A locksmith is more convenient when visiting your home or work. They can cut keys quickly and reprogram your fob, if needed. This will save you the hassle of having to drive to a store and wait in line.

Dealerships are familiar with cars but they don't know anything about keys. They have their own mechanics and interior technology experts, but the key-cutting process is not their area of expertise. Dealerships are large corporations who have strict rules to maximize their profits. They are accountable to car companies, who then submit quarterly reports to shareholders and investors. These circumstances are not conducive to good customer service when cutting keys to cars.

Where can I get a locksmith cut me a key?

Locksmith firms are the best choice. You can also purchase keys made at hardware stores or self-service kiosks. They are licensed, skilled and have the equipment necessary to duplicate most types. Additionally, they can help you program a new car key fob or transponder chip.

The majority of standard keys are cut by a special key duplicator machine, using the original key acting as the template. A blank key is put on the other side, and both keys move simultaneously through the machine's specialized cutter, creating a copy of the original key. Certain types of keys like fobs and car keys need more time because they must be programmed for your vehicle.

Some keys are marked "do duplicate" to stop copies that are not authorized. This is a measure to protect. However, this doesn't mean the key can't be copied however it could take longer because locksmiths must examine the key and ensure that it's not altered.


Certain keys are limited and require proof of ownership to copy or cut them. This is typically because they have distinctive mechanical features or are a strange shape and is done to ensure that they are not used to steal objects or get into secure locations.

For these specialty keys, you'll need to speak with a local locksmith or visit their website to determine whether they have the tools and knowledge to cut keys. If they do, you should expect to pay a bit more than a standard key cut at an hardware store or a self-service kiosk, but it's cheaper and less stressful than having to replace the car key that was lost.